Marine pilot
Level 5 · HigherTransport and logistics 2.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A marine pilot provides expert navigational guidance to vessels entering, leaving, and moving within ports and waterways where local knowledge of tidal conditions, currents, and hazards is essential for safety. At level 5, this apprenticeship prepares experienced mariners who hold an Officer of the Watch or higher certificate for the Trinity House or port authority pilotage examination. The role is a specialist senior maritime career with pathways to harbour master or marine superintendent.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Detailed local knowledge including tidal curves, current patterns, and hydrography
Large vessel handling techniques including the use of tugs and mooring vessels
Bridge resource management and how to take command of a vessel effectively
Port operational procedures, VTS communication, and pilotage directions
UK pilotage legislation including the Pilotage Act 1987 and related regulations
Squat, interaction, and other hydrodynamic effects on large vessels in restricted waters
Emergency procedures for engine failure, loss of steering, and grounding
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Board vessels by pilot ladder or helicopter transfer and assume navigational direction
Advise the master on courses, speeds, and use of anchors and tugs
Communicate with VTS, port operations, and tug skippers by VHF radio
Berth and unberth vessels safely using available tugs and mooring crews
Assess weather windows and decide on safe passage timing for assigned vessels
Complete pilot reports and boarding certificates accurately after each assignment
Attend port operational meetings and contribute to safety management reviews
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 5 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 6 (Degree) apprenticeship or a senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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